Fundraising and management
For 2008, our operating budget has not increased substantially (based on year-on-year expenses); however, we have had to undergo major renovations to the property, due to extensive flood damage in January 2008. Damage was caused to our nursery floors and ceilings and the entire roof of the property had to be repaired. A large amount of general maintenance is also required throughout the property. As such, our overall budget has increased dramatically to accommodate the repair work. The repairs and renovations range from an entire kitchen upgrade (to meet health requirements expected in 2010) to replacement of all flooring through out the home.
To compensate the budget increases, the fundraising sector of Princess Alice has been divided between strategic and general fundraising. Responsibility for strategic fundraising will lie solely with the Home’s manager and includes target areas such as trusts and corporations.
The Home’s volunteer fundraising committee will address the general sector of fundraising. However, the existing committee focuses largely on events only and will need to be reconstituted with stronger members to build relationships with schools, churches etc. It is intended that there be six independent members (non-staff) and possibly 2-4 employees, including the manager. PAAH staff members have expressed interest in assisting with fundraising.
The general sector will also market and promote the products generated from the social enterprise arm of PAAH. Currently, Johannesburg Child Welfare Society (JCWS) operates an empowerment programme – Thembalethu – in Hillbrow, where young street children (mainly girls) have been taught the craft of beading. These products are sold creating an income for these girls. Together with Thembalethu, JCWS has partnered with Mastertons Coffee and Tea Specialists in the marketing and sales of beaded items and coffee gifts – generating much-needed funds for the organisations involved. PAAH will be joining this partnership with exclusive biscuits and fudge. Training and research are currently under way and several staff members have expressed their intention to move into this area. Donations of and funds for ingredients of this products and marketing training of staff will be required. The entire social enterprise programme will create opportunities for our staff and birth mothers to showcase their talents, while generating additional income for them.
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